The fire marshal’s office is not adequately inspecting schools and hospitals for fire hazards.

The findings are included in a new report from the province’s auditor general (AG).

AG Kim Adair says inspection policies are not being followed and the office does not have a complete list of buildings requiring inspections.

“There are no management reviews of inspections, complaints or follow-up inspections, and there’s no way to actually ensure staff are consistently and appropriately completing inspections,” said Adair.

The audit uncovered inspection policies are not being followed and the office does not have a complete list of buildings requiring inspections.

“There are no management reviews of inspections, complaints or follow-up inspections, and there’s no way to actually ensure staff are consistently and appropriately completing inspections,” explains Adair. “Our testing focused on buildings serving vulnerable people and our audit found that forty per cent of the inspections were completed late.”

Source: NS auditor general

It’s the third time since 2001 an audit has raised concerns about process around fire and building safety. Adair’s report contains seven recommendations, which have been accepted by the office to fix.

“First, we respect the findings of the Auditor General and accept the recommendations provided. Nova Scotians can be assured staff in the office are professionals who are focused and dedicated to protecting people from fires and ensuring buildings are safe,” said John Lohr, Minister responsible for the Office of the Fire Marshal. “We recognize we can improve on some of our administrative processes, and I assure you that work is underway.”

The fire marshal’s office is responsible for safety inspections of provincially owned and licensed buildings including hospitals, schools, public housing, and long-term care homes, as well as new construction and renovation building plan reviews and fire investigations with fatalities.